Jessica has been a fitness writer at Tom’s Guide since 2023, bringing three years of experience writing about health, fitness, and the great outdoors. Her passion for exercise began during her childhood, where she spent weekends hiking and competing in local athletics club events. After earning a master’s degree in journalism from Cardiff University, Jessica found the perfect way to combine her love of storytelling and fitness into a career.
Jessica is passionate about testing fitness gear and tech, using her reviews to help readers make informed buying decisions. She ran her first marathon in April 2024, finishing it in 3 hours and 48 minutes. Through her training, she’s developed a deep understanding of what it takes to grow as a runner, from effective workouts and recovery techniques to selecting the right gear for every challenge.
When she’s not at her desk, Jessica enjoys spending time in the kitchen crafting new recipes, braving cold water swims and hiking.
Latest articles by Jessica Downey

Free People’s fitness sale is elite this season, with up to 70% off shoes and apparel from Hoka, Merrell, ASICS, and more
By Jessica Downey published
I’ve been stalking Free People’s fitness sale, and it’s a belter. You can save up to 70% on running shoes, sports bras, hiking gear and more.

I asked a chiropractor how to fix my posture, and they recommended this one exercise
By Jessica Downey published
Dr. DebRoy recommends the heel-elevated goblet squat to reduce strain, improve posture, and build strength safely.

My all-time favorite Saucony running shoes just got a huge discount — plus 8 more deals I’d shop now
By Jessica Downey last updated
Saucony running sneakers are on sale at Amazon for Black Friday, and the deals are seriously heating up.

I broke two personal records with these Nike carbon-plate running shoes — and they're now $108 cheaper for Black Friday
By Jessica Downey published
Top-tier carbon-plate running shoes at $108 off? This deal at Dick’s can’t be missed.

These 7 Brooks running shoe deals are the ones I’d spend my own money on this Black Friday
By Jessica Downey last updated
Not every Black Friday deal is a win, so I pulled out the Brooks discounts that actually make sense for runners looking for comfort, durability and proper support.

Hoka Black Friday sales — 19 deals on running shoes, walking shoes and apparel I’d shop now
By Nick Harris-Fry last updated
Hoka’s Black Friday sale is live now with many of my favorite shoes for road and trail running, walking and more discounted significantly.

No, not sit-ups — a trainer says these 5 moves build deep and functional core strength for anyone over 50
By Jessica Downey published
You can build serious core strength without ever hitting the floor. Trainer Eric North’s five-move routine is designed to help anyone over 50 do exactly that.

Bad knees? A trainer swears by these 7 moves for building full-body strength after 70
By Jessica Downey last updated
Seven low-impact exercises that build strength from head to toe while keeping your joints happy.

Some of my favorite comfortable running shoes are down 47% right now with these early Black Friday deals on New Balance, Hoka and more
By Jessica Downey last updated
Treat your feet to maximum cushioning without breaking the bank. Early Black Friday deals put top running shoes from Asics, Hoka, New Balance, and more at up to 40% off.

5 simple tips a Pilates instructor wants every beginner to know
By Jessica Downey published
From breathing and core engagement to what to wear and which style to choose, these five expert-backed tips will help you step into Pilates with confidence.

New to running? I built a full starter pack and it’s all on sale at REI starting at $9
By Jessica Downey published
From Hoka shoes to Garmin watches and Nathan accessories, I’ve rounded up the ultimate starter kit for new runners. Deals start at just $9, so it’s the perfect time to stock up and get moving.

Scientists find one exercise that's 6 times more powerful than walking when it comes to protecting your heart
By Jessica Downey published
While walking remains a heart-healthy habit, a new study shows that vigorous activity could support your cardiovascular health in a fraction of the time. Here’s what the data actually reveals.

Don’t wait! My favorite running jacket is just $79 in the Lululemon We Made Too Much section
By Jessica Downey published
Stylish running jackets aren’t easy to come by, which is why I love the Lululemon UV-Protective Cinch-Waist Running Jacket — especially now at 38% off.

Try this easy 5-move standing core workout if you want strength without getting on the floor
By Jessica Downey published
You don’t need sit-ups or crunches to feel your core work. This all-standing routine helps strengthen your middle, improve balance, and stay joint-friendly at any age.

This workout skips sit-ups and crunches: Here's a trainer's 4-move routine for building a stronger core over 50
By Jessica Downey published
Strengthen your core with these four standing bodyweight exercises. No floor work required.

Nike's massive early Black Friday sale just dropped — here's 11 deals I'd add to my cart now from $12
By Jessica Downey published
Nike's early Black Friday deals are live with up to 49% off a wide range of sneakers and apparel. I’ve rounded up the picks that are actually worth your money.

My favorite On running shoes are 30% off right now — plus 9 other deals I’d buy in the early Black Friday sales
By Jessica Downey published
Save up to 40% on On’s top-rated running shoes and activewear in this early Black Friday sale — but be quick, sizes are already selling out.

Run, don’t walk! My favorite Hoka running shoes are 20% off in this early Black Friday sale
By Jessica Downey published
The Hoka Speedgoat is a stunner of a trail running shoe for runners of all levels and has $32 off right now.

I’ve tested a lot of running shoes, but these Brooks are the most comfortable — and they’re $50 off right now
By Jessica Downey published
If you love a max cushioned running shoe, then you'll love this 25% discount on the Brooks Glycerin Max even more.

Dick’s Sporting Goods Black Friday deals are here with up to 70% off Adidas, Patagonia, The North Face and more — these are 9 the deals I’d actually shop
By Jessica Downey published
Score big savings on apparel from On, Yeti, The North Face, Patagonia and other top brands in the early Black Friday sale at Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Forget running — try this 15-minute walking workout that’s low-impact but surprisingly powerful for your metabolism
By Jessica Downey published
This 15-minute, low-impact workout helps increase your daily step count, build cardio fitness and stimulate your metabolism for better all-day energy.

Nope, not sit-ups — expert coach shares his three-move recipe for building real core strength
By Jessica Downey published
An expert coach shares his three-move recipe for building real core strength.

Huge savings just hit REI — here are the best deals on The North Face, Free People, Hoka and Merrell this season
By Jessica Downey published
REI’s Fall Sale continues, and there are some excellent deals on jackets, fleeces, running shoes and boots. Here are my top picks.
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